The Williamson County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office, in partnership with the Sheriff’s Combined Auto Theft Task Force, Liberty Hill Police Department and Liberty Hill ISD Police will be hosting a free car window vehicle identification number (VIN) etching event at Liberty Hill Middle School this Saturday, Aug. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

VIN etching is the permanent engraving of a vehicle’s federally registered VIN onto its windshield and windows. VIN etching is often seen as a deterrent to thieves because it not only makes it nearly impossible for thieves to profit from selling windows and windshields, but it also makes it more difficult for thieves to find a way to dispose of the vehicle once it has been stolen. As a result, VIN etching is recommended by police and insurance agencies to protect against auto theft.

The process to have a vehicle VIN etched is simple and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Typically, the process includes developing a stencil of the vehicle’s VIN number which is then used with glass etching gel to engrave the number onto the windows of the vehicle.

“Cars and trucks are usually stolen for one of two reasons, resale value or individual parts,” said Jeff Anderson, Williamson County Precinct 2 Constable. “Before selling a stolen vehicle, a thief would have to replace the VIN-etched glass, a time consuming and expensive task. We are always looking for ways to deter criminal activity and protect Williamson County citizens and their property, and this free event helps do just that.”

For more information about the VIN etching event, please contact the Williamson County Precinct 2 Constable’s office at 512-260-4270.